Live a Little: Breaking Free from the Routine

Just the other day, my journaling app sparked a surprising memory. It nudged me to write about a visit to a seaside lounge with colleagues the day before. As someone who’s battled writer’s block for ages, it felt like a sign!

Now, my colleagues suggested a “team-bonding hangout” on a Friday after work. Of course, I said yes, but a tiny voice screamed internally. You see, I’m not a night owl and despise late nights. My ideal Friday? Straight from work to the comfort of my own home.

So, Friday arrived. We finished tasks a bit late, and by the time we reached the hangout spot, I was internally freaking out. My plan? Escape by the time we arrived. Staying out for an hour felt like an eternity, especially at an unfamiliar location. Google Maps would definitely become my lifeline!

Despite my initial panic, I ended up staying a little over an hour. Here’s the kicker: I had a blast! The venue boasted open-air seating, a waterfront view, and — the music lover in me rejoiced — a live band! It was a refreshing change of pace, unwinding with colleagues outside the office. Laughter, conversation, good food and drinks — it was a perfect start to the evening. Unfortunately, “perfect start” is where it ended for me, as I left early (much to my colleagues’ amusement and/or disappointment: “The day is just breaking!” they said).

The drive home, though quick, felt like a return to my comfort zone. But here’s the thing: as I write this, I realize that in 15 years of working, this was only the second after-work hangout I’d attended. Pathetic, right? It made me wish I’d embraced such opportunities more often.

This is where the “Live a Little” message comes in.

Life can easily become a routine treadmill: work, home, errands, sleep, repeat. It’s tragically boring! That hangout, however, offered a glimpse into a life less ordinary — a relaxed evening with colleagues, free from work pressures. It reminded me to unwind and de-stress. In fact, my first thought was, “Why haven’t I brought my wife here?”

So, if you’re like me, take a page out of my book! “Live a Little” isn’t just about easing stress; it’s about becoming a more enjoyable person. Make time for fun with family and friends. You’ll be surprised how much they appreciate the “less stressed” you. Your family deserves to enjoy more unwinding time with you. Plus, after-work gatherings are a great way to bond with colleagues, potentially turning them into friends. Who knows, it might even boost your career!

Even though I only spent an hour with my colleagues, it opened my eyes to a whole new world I’d been missing out on. I know their reaction to reading this will be a smug “I told you so!”

To my colleagues: This is a huge shout-out and thank you for getting me out of my shell. Next time, I promise I’ll be more fun!

And to everyone: Live a little! It’s worth it.